This past week felt off.
It was a fairly typical week, full of the usual lists of work and life commitments. But something felt different, and what should have been small pebbles weighed on me like heavy rocks. I felt deflated, and I couldn’t pinpoint why.
Then it hit me.
Though I’d been fully present for clients, friends, and family, and though I’d successfully tended to those never-ending chores, I’d forgotten to carve out time to refill my own tank. I hadn’t picked up my ukulele. I hadn’t tossed Mozzie’s favorite toy with her. I hadn’t finished my book. And I hadn’t connected socially just for fun.
So, I made an intentional shift.
Each evening for the past week, I played my ukulele and sang. I spent time with Mozzie. I finished my novel and started a new one. And I made weekend plans with multiple sets of friends.
Those moments of joy and connection recalibrated everything. And this week has felt balanced and lighter, like a deep breath I didn’t know I needed.
Here’s what it reminded me: We shouldn’t wait for permission or for exhaustion to recharge. We can build it in intentionally. Taking that time isn’t selfish or indulgent; it’s smart. It’s what allows us to show up grounded, present, and able to give our best.